Top 3 Food Events: West Coast BBQ Classic, Springfest + CUR-ATE

Barbecue aficionados and grillmasters take note: The West Coast BBQ Classic returns to Long Beach. As contestants compete for a $9,000 cash prize and serious bragging rights, general-admission ticket holders can sample their wares for $2 each. Live bands are scheduled to perform throughout the day.

Food historian Maite Gomez-Rejón leads a tour on the history of Mexico's art and cuisine, focusing on the 16th to 19th century. The tour includes a Latin American dinner by Kris Morningstar of Ray's and Stark Bar. Wine pairings by sommelier Paul Sanguinetti will be available at an additional cost.